Divorce
Divorce is a difficult reality that can strike any family. Mistakes are made, and marriages sometimes fail. If you’re facing this challenging time, you need skilled legal representation to protect your rights and guide you through the process. At DuRant Law, we understand the profound impact family law outcomes can have on your future. We proudly represent men, women, and their children across the Grand Strand area of South Carolina.
Navigating Contested and Uncontested Divorces
Whether your divorce is contested or uncontested, the process can place immense stress on families. At DuRant Law, we seek to alleviate that burden by offering knowledgeable insight, informed guidance, and compassionate support throughout every stage of your case. We work closely with our clients to resolve critical matters such as:
Property Division: Equitably dividing marital assets and debts.
Child Custody and Support: Prioritizing your children’s well-being.
Alimony (Spousal Support): Ensuring fair financial arrangements.
Mediation and Litigation
In South Carolina, mediation is required before proceeding to litigation in all jurisdictions. We strive to resolve matters amicably whenever possible, but as experienced trial attorneys, we are fully prepared to protect your interests in court if necessary.
When disputes cannot be resolved amicably, we are equipped to assist you with obtaining Orders of Protection and other legal remedies to safeguard your rights and well-being.
Post-Divorce Modifications and Enforcement
Life doesn’t stand still after a divorce, and the needs of you or your children may change over time. DuRant Law offers dedicated counsel for post-divorce modifications or enforcement, ensuring that your settlement continues to work for you in the years ahead.
Child Custody & Support
When children are involved in a divorce or separation, child custody is often the most emotionally charged and critical issue to resolve. At DuRant Law, we understand how vital it is to protect your relationship with your child while ensuring their well-being and stability. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping parents navigate this challenging process with compassion and expertise.
What the Courts Consider
The primary goal in any custody case is to serve the best interests of the child. Courts in South Carolina consider several factors, including:
- The child’s age, health, and emotional needs.
- Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home environment.
- The child’s relationship with each parent and other family members.
- The willingness of each parent to foster a positive relationship between the child and the other parent.
- Any history of domestic violence, abuse, or neglect.
Crafting Custody Agreements
At DuRant Law, we work with parents to create custody agreements that reflect the best interests of the child while protecting your parental rights. Whenever possible, we encourage amicable solutions through negotiation and mediation, helping parents avoid the stress and expense of court battles.
Child Support
Raising a child comes with significant financial responsibilities, and in South Carolina, both parents are legally obligated to contribute to their child’s well-being. At DuRant Law, we are committed to ensuring that children receive the financial support they need and deserve, while protecting your rights throughout the process.
Adoption
Adoption is a beautiful way to grow your family, but the legal process can often feel overwhelming. At DuRant Law, we are passionate about helping families navigate the complexities of adoption in South Carolina, ensuring that your journey to parenthood is as smooth and joyful as possible.
Types of Adoption We Handle:
Stepparent Adoption: When a stepparent wishes to adopt their spouse’s child, we assist in navigating the legal steps to make your family bond official.|
Relative Adoption: Grandparents, aunts, uncles, or other family members may wish to adopt a child within the family. We ensure the process meets all legal requirements.
Private Adoption: Whether working directly with a birth parent or through an agency, we can guide you through the private adoption process.
Agency Adoption: We work closely with licensed adoption agencies to finalize the legal requirements of placing a child with your family.
Foster Care Adoption: For families wishing to adopt a child currently in foster care, we provide legal guidance to ensure a smooth transition.
Paternity
At DuRant Law, we understand how important it is to establish paternity for the benefit of both parents and children. Whether you are a mother seeking child support, a father wishing to assert your parental rights, or an individual simply looking for clarity, our team is here to provide experienced guidance through the paternity process in South Carolina.
Why Paternity Matters
Establishing paternity can have a profound impact on a child’s life and the rights and responsibilities of their parents. Determining paternity can provide the child with a sense of identity and family connection, secure legal rights for the father, including custody and visitation, ensure financial support for the child through child support orders, and grant the child access to benefits, such as health insurance, inheritance rights, and Social Security.